Top Causes of Commercial Water Damage

7/10/2023 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South help your business take measures to reduce the time that your company is closed after a disaster.

While many cases of water damage in the United States are experienced by homeowners, commercial buildings are also at risk of succumbing to water damage. Water damage is often experienced in blocks by commercial properties. While there is usually a yard between homes, there may only be a few inches of concrete between businesses.

In a place like Gwinnett County, we are no stranger to powerful storms that deal serious damage to our properties. We see everything from tornadoes to floods to the effects of hurricanes that hit the coasts.

We face an additional risk for being in such a mountainous state like Georgia, where the frequent elevation change makes it easy for water to pool together and begin flash floods more easily.

It’s common knowledge how disastrous water can be to the structures we have, impacting your business both physically and financially. The best way to minimize water’s effects on your business is to deal with the problems immediately.

Knowing the causes of water damage is also crucial to finding the right solution to the issue. We’ve gathered information on the three main causes of commercial water damage for you to keep an eye out for in your building:

Major Causes of Water Damage

Oftentimes, things that seem like minor issues can actually be growing into a much larger problem for you know it.

A minor leak can waste over 22 gallons per day, and a major leak can waste up to five times that amount depending on the size and location.

Roof Leaks

The roof is designed to limit the interior of the building from external elements like heat from the sun, rain during storms and debris that gets blown around. However, a leaky roof actually does the opposite, serving as a funnel for all of the outdoors to enter your building.

As the roof gets older, it also becomes more vulnerable to heavy rain, snow and falling debris that can result in extreme damage or even an entire roof collapse. Make sure to keep an eye on your roof, especially after storms, to better prevent costly roof leaks and the following damage.

Broken Equipment or Appliances

Sometimes, your building may have appliances like a water heater, AC, dishwasher and many others that facilitate the flow of water. Apart from appliances, there are complex piping systems in every building that can suffer damage at any time and cause costly commercial damage.

Major problems happen when these appliances are broken and no one notices. Even worse, if this were to happen during off-hours, it could leak a substantial amount of water and do extreme levels of structural damage before anyone even notices.

Inspecting your piping and appliances regularly can help you stay on top of the problem before it escalates into a destructive event.

Natural Disaster

Apart from roof leaks and broken equipment, water damage happens in commercial buildings due to natural disasters like hurricanes, thunderstorms and heavy rain that causes flash floods. Clogged gutters can also lead rainwater to flow toward the foundation of your building, making it more vulnerable to damage.

Have your gutters cleaned at least twice a year, and inspect your building regularly to identify and address any damage before it gets out of hand.

Commercial water damage is a devastating problem that any business owner can experience. While there is no way to get rid of it entirely, knowing these important causes, and some preventive measures can help you minimize the risk you face.

If you have experienced damage to your business or want to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.

Our Commercial Fire Large Loss Restoration Services

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Stone Mountain/Clarkston to restore your commercial property after a fire has caused a large loss.

As a business owner, there are a lot of things to be concerned about when it comes to keeping the doors open. One important element of running a business is having a plan when disaster strikes and strikes hard.

Disasters can come in many sizes, but one that is perhaps one of the most concerning is what is called a “large loss” to your commercial property. A “large loss” is defined as a large scale loss that has a considerable financial impact to your business.

What can SERVPRO do about a large loss for your business?

Emergency Response. We have emergency services on deck 24⁄7 to answer the call for whenever you might need us. We will act immediately to contain the damage and start the repair procedure. We’ve worked with commercial organizations of all kinds for more than 50 years, and we are the experts in cleaning up after large-scale damage and getting businesses just like yours back up and running as fast as possible.

Treating the Damage. Our pros in green consist of licensed experts who have been educated in specialized procedures for removing water and treating smoke damage in your commercial property after a fire. Even if the bulk of your building has been affected, we work diligently to rescue what can be restored and detect issues that may be invisible to the untrained eye. Getting your business back up and running is critical, and we do our best to ensure the work is done correctly and thoroughly while working as quickly as possible. With our knowledge and industry-leading equipment, we’re able to do the most comprehensive job in the shortest amount of time.

When you call on SERVPRO for large-loss restoration services, you can count on consistent communication throughout the duration of the job, the highest-quality products and unmatched customer service. We understand the worry that commercial property damage may cause.

The subsequent difficulties caused by smoke, water from firefighting efforts and structural damage might make your business seem irreparable. You can put your confidence in our technicians, who will work hard to treat the damage, identify any objects that need restoration or replacement, and even coordinate with your insurance provider.

Allow SERVPRO of Stone Mountain/Clarkston to restore your commercial property after a fire has caused a large loss and interruptions to business. We are on hand 24⁄7, ready to take your call right now.

Your Partners in Business

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Stone Mountain/Clarkston is your local commercial restoration expert. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

When running a business, to say that it can be stressful at times is quite an understatement. As a business owner, you know how difficult it can be to have things always run smoothly. Major damages or accidents can cause major losses to a company, and that’s something we want to help you avoid.

That’s why you can count on SERVPRO to become your partner in the business world. We are locally owned and operated, and we will help you work through or recover from anything that can possibly take away from your business. Our goal is to help you and your business continue down the road to success.

Large loss recovery. The top cause of financial loss for businesses across the United States are fires, storms and flooding. These things can and likely will cause large amounts of damage, especially if you wait before dealing with the problem. That’s where SERVPRO can come in with our highly trained professionals to help get you on the road to recovery.

Emergency Ready Plan. Preparation is key, which is why you need to prepare your business before disaster strikes. We will help you create and put the perfect plan into place, so that when disaster comes, you know exactly what to do. There are specific things you should consider when planning, like having an emergency chain of command, alternate meeting or work sites, and how to handle restoration needs.

Cleaning of All Kinds. We can help you with any specialty cleaning needs you have, like biohazard removal,, as well as routine cleaning needs like carpet cleaning or upholstery restoration. No matter what the messy issue is, we will come up with a solution to get it cleaned.

Restoration Services. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or a small kitchen fire got out of hand, these things require cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO of Stone Mountain/Clarkston has all the bases covered, offering comprehensive restoration services for water damage, fire damage and storm damage, among other emergencies.

Industry Specialization. We have spent years learning about commercial enterprises, so we know that we can help anyone. We know the ins and outs of a variety of industries and stand prepared to handle those needs. Because we understand how important your business is, we will often enclose a work area during restoration so that your business operations aren’t disrupted. Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

Commercial Fire Extinguisher Safety and Education

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

If your property takes on fire damage, rest assured that SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to help.

Fire safety is a critical aspect of health & safety measures that all businesses must address, and maintaining your commercial property’s fire extinguishers is essential in protecting your employees, property and products from harm.

A fire extinguisher can’t protect anything if nobody knows how to use it. There are many rules and regulations related to fire extinguisher safety, such as the fact that fire extinguishers should be mounted on walls at distances of less than 75 feet that would not be well-known without proper education.

You and your employees must also know how to choose the right extinguisher, as well as how to operate it. This is where it might be valuable to employ some training.

Why Training Is Essential

Let’s take a look at what fire extinguisher training includes and why it’s important:

Fire extinguisher training usually consists of education and practice. You will learn all about the types of extinguishers through lectures provided by a certified instructor. Once you have passed the education portion, you will get to put your knowledge into practice. Generally conducted in an outdoor setting, certified instructors will provide hands-on training teaching you and your team how to use the various types of fire extinguishers.

What would happen if a fire sprung up in your facility today? Would you know how to extinguish it and with the proper extinguisher? Would your employees know how to do this?

This is why training is critical in ensuring your staff has the opportunity to try these devices and techniques before a disaster strikes so that in the case one ever does happen, you all will know exactly what to do.

Your workplace runs the risk of devastating and costly damage if you’re not prepared. While you can’t predict a fire, you can ensure that your employees know what to do to promptly and effectively combat it through proper training. This ultimately minimizes what could have been extensive injuries, damages and expenses.

If your commercial property takes on fire damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to help. We have teams on deck at all times ready to take your call and begin the restoration process immediately.

Your Hidden Business Partner | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is your local commercial restoration expert. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

It can be tough to keep things operating smooth as a company owner. As the owner or manager of any sort of business, you are well aware that it takes all the support you can get to keep things moving smoothly. It may be devastating for organizations like yours if disasters hit when you’re unprepared.

Fortunately, you have a built-in secret partner for all of your cleaning and disaster recovery needs. Having SERVPRO to take care of so many areas of your business is basically like having a hidden business partner that is involved in the success of your operations by taking care of a big chunk of it.

Large Loss Recovery. Fires, storms, and floods are three of the most prevalent causes of financial loss for businesses in the United States, and they may cause considerably more harm if not treated quickly. When you call SERVPRO after a property damage emergency, you’ll connect with a top-notch staff of qualified professionals who are accessible 24 hours a day to help you. We can offer you our tried-and-true emergency services and help you recover your footing as quickly as possible.

Emergency Ready Plan. Recovery from disasters can begin before the event ever happens. We can help you in building an Emergency Ready Plan to follow in the case of a crisis. After a disaster, you may require an emergency chain of command, alternate meeting or work places, or temporary suppliers, among other things, and we’ll guarantee that you’re prepared for a single button push that activates everything.

Cleaning of All Kinds. It makes no difference what sort of cleaning service you require. We are competent in managing everything from trauma cleanup to safe biohazard removal, to carpet cleaning and upholstery restoration. We’ve been in this business for a long period of time and have seen and cleaned everything.

Restoration Services. You cannot predict unforeseeable property damage events like when storms will cause flooding, interns start a cooking fire or a waterline will burst. All of these situations need repair and cleaning, which SERVPRO performs better than anyone else. Put your faith in us to restore your organization after a disaster.

Industry Specialization. There is no organization that we cannot help, and we have spent years getting to know them all. We can clean or repair your business regardless of its unique or specific needs. In many situations, we can even separate the work area from the rest of the building’s activities to avoid any disruptions to other aspects of your company.

Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

SERVPRO- Commercial Water Damage

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

Being so close to the big city of Atlanta, we have an exponentially large amount of experience with water losses to commercial properties. In some cases, these water damages can be as simple as outside flood water entering the front lobby of your building or as complex as a fire sprinkler discharging on the tenth floor of an office building.  SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is prepared to help you through the process, no matter the extent of the water loss.

Creating a Plan

Our technicians understand that you need to have your business up and running as quickly as possible, but nobody knows your business better than you do!  We also understand that as a business owner or manager you are having to deal with dozens of needs during a crisis: employees, inventory, technology, customers.  We need to understand your priority so that we can develop a plan that works best for you and your business. As soon as we arrive onsite our number one priority is learning your main priority. 

Large Loss Response Team

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is a qualified Large Loss Response Team (LLRT).  Being named an LLRT team member means that we have been vetted for having the resources and experience to handle large commercial losses. When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call at 770-448-5782.

Planning Out the Recovery Steps if Your Business Is Hit By a Disaster

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

As you work to build your business into a successful one, there are many things to be concerned with along the way—however, many business owners fail to be concerned with the dangers of natural disasters and the impact they can have.

Many businesses struggle to reopen in the aftermath of an emergency, but through careful planning and preparation, you can reduce the likelihood of this impacting you.

Safety is always the main concern in regard to disasters, which is why it is wise to plan for keeping your staff safe during emergency scenarios before anything else. Once that is settled, you can begin to think through the recovery steps and what actions you should take in order to get your doors reopened as quickly as possible.

Planning Out the Recovery Steps if Your Business Is Hit By a Disaster

Check with your insurance and restoration companies first. What is considered covered damage to your business after a disaster varies based on your insurance policy, so getting in touch with them quickly is wise to determine the next steps. Afterward, contact your restoration company to get your damage taken care of quickly. In many cases, a commercial restoration company can also work with your insurance on your behalf.

Make customers aware of your plans for reopening. It is important to let your customers know what is happening in the wake of a disaster, whether it is through signage or social media. It is also smart to come up with creative ways that people can still show their support while you are closed, whether it be through online purchases, gift cards or some other avenue that can provide your business with income even while you work to recover.

See what disaster assistance you qualify for. After an event has been declared a disaster, many resources open up to business owners to apply for. The Small Business Administration offers commercial loans for this very reason, which can be used to cover multiple costs and are provided with flexible terms and repayment options to provide the maximum value.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

A Clean That Puts Returning Customers at Ease | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

If you’re business has sanitation and cleaning needs, get in touch with the SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South team.

As recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic continues, families and communities are hoping that “normal” life is on its way back in full, and business owners are hopeful for a full return to economic recovery as well.

But a new challenge for business owners is here: How can you ensure that your business is clean, safe and sanitized, and how can you let returning employees and customers know they’re safe at the same time?

Get Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program gives you both. We’ll sanitize your building with a custom solution that’s proven effective against everything from MRSA to anthrax,, and equip you with ways to let your customers know before they ever walk through the door that their health is a priority.

It’s all possible because of the three C’s:

Consult. Your business is uniquely situated, and we know that means it has sanitation and cleaning needs that other area businesses may not have. We’ll work with you to determine the best set of options for you. It helps that SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is locally owned and operated, so we are already acquainted with many of the intricacies of the greater Atlanta area.

Clean. Once we settle on a sanitation plan, we’ll be hard at work making sure your building is next-level clean. We’ll disinfect your business with exclusive, hospital-grade cleaning methods no one else can offer, and you’ll end up with an extreme level of sanitation that meets or exceeds current CDC standards, is NSF-approved for food safety and is EPA-tested for use around children, elderly individuals and pets. And a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program goes past COVID-19 protection—this clean will fight the germs that cause any number of contagious diseases and virus, so your customers and employees can breathe easy and relax inside your store or office.

Certify. Now you can share your good news with everyone by displaying the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield in your front window, on your door, your website and more. This lets returning customers and potential passers-by know that you care about them, because you’ve gone to lengths many business owners haven’t to care for their health and safety.

If you’re ready to get serious about sanitation and have your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, get in touch today to get the best team in cleanup and restoration on your side.

Commercial Disaster? Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

When you're a business owner and you run into an unexpected commercial disaster, you should call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW at 770-448-5782. We can immediately dispatch technicians to come assess any situation that is stopping your business from operating. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW will do everything in our power to help you and your business when trouble arises. 

Tips until SERVPRO arrives:

• Shut off the water source, if identified.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• DO NOT use regular vacuum to remove water
• Locate insurance information
• When we arrive we will do a very thorough dry out and complete it in a timely manner. We practice the science of drying...and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a "One Stop Shop" – Which means we are a company that can dry out your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Stone Mountain/Clarkston at 770-496-1976, we are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your commercial needs.

Flooding at Your Place of Business

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Preparing for a flood is one of the smartest things that a business owner can do, even if they are not in an area typically prone to flooding. Statistically, 90% of natural disasters involve flooding and commonly impact areas that are not usual flooding targets.

Increasing your emergency preparedness by planning for a flood is a great idea not only for the safety of yourself and your staff but also for the continuity of your business. By planning in advance and preserving documentation, you can be more prepared to reopen after the flooding passes.

How to Prepare

It is not uncommon for business owners to not know where to start on flood preparations, but thankfully there are many resources out there. Some things to do include:

• Use the FEMA Flood Map and locate your building in order to determine any geographical risks you might face.
• Place copies of important documents in a secure location you will be able to access following a flood.
• Educate employees on your official flooding action procedures, which will ensure everyone knows what their role is in a flood scenario.
• Identify evacuation routes from various locations around the building and host regular drills.
• Consider the idea of adding flood insurance to your business policy.
• Store non-perishable food and water in case you face wait times for emergency personnel to arrive.
• Raise up any valuable electronics out of the water’s path.

How to Decide What Documents to Copy

When it comes to copying documents, it is better to have anything you think you might need instead of failing to remember something. Some important things to include are:

• An outline of your business continuity tasks
• Means of contact for any staff members and third-party services you may need to contact
• Your insurance agent’s contact information
• Detailed steps for recovering computer files that have been backed up
• Financial documents such as bank account information

If your business has experienced a flood, we are always here to help. Call us at 770-448-5782 to get our team of professionals to your business quickly so you can get back on track.

We Can Support Five Forks Business Owners During Difficult Times | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to learn more.

Did you know a member of the community owns your local SERVPRO?

That’s important because we’re invested in our community’s success. Five Forks business owners like you can count on our team to help you when you need support. We want you to be successful because we want the community to do well.

We also get how hard you work to ensure your business is successful. It takes a lot to research and plan your business. And there’s a lot more work that goes into actually operating your business once it’s open. As it grows, you want to be sure you’re prepared to expand, meet your customer’s needs and operate at your best potential.

We’ve all had to think about how we do business and reach customers during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. That means we’re always looking for ways to improve the efficacy and safety of the businesses we operate.

Though many businesses in the area have already opened back up, navigating the waters of running a business during the pandemic isn’t easy. And you want to do it efficiently and safely.

Where You Can Find Resources

You can find great tools to help you learn more about available business loans and tips, advice and more from trusted local and national resources.

We’re here to help you, too. Our job is to ensure your office, store or restaurant is ready for customers.

Our team will get your business “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” That means we’ll use the latest technology to ensure your business is safe for everyone. Here’s how we do it:

We’ll consult with you about your needs.

Then we’ll clean your space by using proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Our cleaning and decontamination standards come directly from the CDC.

Finally, our teams certify your space. That means you can rest assured that you’re ready to be open for business.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

What are some of the causes of commercial water losses?

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms.   However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.  

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.  

3. Broken pipes and plumbing Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result.   

4. Backed up sewer lines This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings.   

If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at 770-448-5782 for fast help.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is Here for Business Owners

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

Being so close to the big city of Atlanta, we have an exponentially large amount of experience with water losses to commercial properties. In some cases, these water damages can be as simple as outside flood water entering the front lobby of your building or as complex as a fire sprinkler discharging on the tenth floor of an office building.  SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is prepared to help you through the process, no matter the extent of the water loss.

Creating a Plan

Our technicians understand that you need to have your business up and running as quickly as possible, but nobody knows your business better than you do!  We also understand that as a business owner or manager you are having to deal with dozens of needs during a crisis: employees, inventory, technology, customers.  We need to understand your priority so that we can develop a plan that works best for you and your business. As soon as we arrive onsite our number one priority is learning your main priority. 

Large Loss Response Team

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is a qualified Large Loss Response Team (LLRT).  Being named an LLRT team member means that we have been vetted for having the resources and experience to handle large commercial losses. When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call at 770-448-5782.

Returning to Normalcy After Your Business Is Impacted By a Disaster | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is your go-to in case a disaster occurs. Get in touch with us to learn more.

As you work to build your business into a successful one, there are many things to be concerned with along the way—however, many business owners fail to be concerned with the dangers of natural disasters and the impact they can have.

Many businesses struggle to reopen in the aftermath of an emergency, but through careful planning and preparation, you can reduce the likelihood of this impacting you.

Safety is always the main concern in regard to disasters, which is why it is wise to plan for keeping your staff safe during emergency scenarios before anything else. Once that is settled, you can begin to think through the recovery steps and what actions you should take in order to get your doors reopened as quickly as possible.

Planning Out the Recovery Steps if Your Business Is Hit By a Disaster

Check with your insurance and restoration companies first. What is considered covered damage to your business after a disaster varies based on your insurance policy, so getting in touch with them quickly is wise to determine the next steps. Afterward, contact your restoration company to get your damage taken care of quickly. In many cases, a commercial restoration company can also work with your insurance on your behalf.

Make customers aware of your plans for reopening. It is important to let your customers know what is happening in the wake of a disaster, whether it is through signage or social media. It is also smart to come up with creative ways that people can still show their support while you are closed, whether it be through online purchases, gift cards or some other avenue that can provide your business with income even while you work to recover.

See what disaster assistance you qualify for. After an event has been declared a disaster, many resources open up to business owners to apply for. The Small Business Administration offers commercial loans for this very reason, which can be used to cover multiple costs and are provided with flexible terms and repayment options to provide the maximum value.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

Equipped to handle large commercial losses

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

When you're a business owner and you run into an unexpected commercial disaster, you should call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782. We can immediately dispatch technicians to come assess any situation that is stopping your business from operating. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will do everything in our power to help you and your business when trouble arises. 

Tips until SERVPRO arrives:

• Shut off the water source, if identified.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• DO NOT use regular vacuum to remove water
• Locate insurance information
• When we arrive we will do a very thorough dry out and complete it in a timely manner. We practice the science of drying...and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a "One Stop Shop" – Which means we are a company that can dry out your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782, we are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your commercial needs.

Damage to Commercial Property

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage like this slow you or your business down, contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett 24/7 to help get your commercial property back in order.

Flooding and water damage events in Georgia commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and immediate response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work as diligently as possible for each situation and isolate the affected area. In many situations, normal operations can continue in a temporary work space while we restore your commercial property.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents  Challenges

SERVPRO of Gwinnett South's professional technicians are trained to be aware of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your financial constraints. We understand that time spent cleaning up is time of lost revenue and productivity. So if you find yourself in an emergency situation at your location of business, give us a call so we can get there fast and help you and your business in a desperate time of need.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Call us when your commercial property experiences damage from water, flooding, or fire!

Four Frequent Commercial Loss Causes Business Owners Should be Aware of

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

When you are the owner of a business, it is easy to picture water damages as a massive storm wiping out power, flooding offices, or shutting down your business for long periods of time. While this sometimes may be the case, severe storms are not the only causes of water damage and floods. The following are common causes of water damage in commercial properties.

1. Malfunctioning Sprinkler Systems
   Some older commercial buildings, still to this day, have faulty sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While these sprinklers may be beneficial during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are outdated or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged Appliances and Equipment
   Although, it is more often seen in restaurants, this cause of commercial flood damage can also happen in any business that has equipment and appliances that make use of water. If your appliances were to fail, especially after business operating hours, you may come back to a water emergency at your place of business.

3. Broken Pipes and Plumbing
   Frequently seen in residential properties, but it could also happen in a workplace facility. If the plumbing system at your commercial space fails, you could have a serious water damage loss on your hands.

4. Backed Up Sewer Lines
   There are very real, potential dangers that come along with the possibility of contaminated Black Water if your sewer line in your commercial building were to back up or become damaged. Black Water could put your health at risk, ruin products, and maybe even contaminate the furnishings in your office. Backed up sewer lines is a commercial water loss that catches a lot of business owners by surprise.

While many other issues can cause a commercial loss, we see these frequently. Our technicians are well trained in the commercial loss area. So, if your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South can help you and your business get back up to production in no time. Call us anytime 24/7 at 770-448-5782 for fast help.

Commercial Water Damage

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage can be caused by an amount of different issues. Anywhere from rainstorms, broken pipes, or humidity to faulty appliances or slow leaks. Any of these incidents can lead to microbial or bacterial growth if it is not cleaned up properly. A full-service property restoration company like us, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South can help your business recover from water damage, no matter how big or how small the loss may be. We understand that the damage needs to be mitigated as quickly as possible to minimize the downtime your business may experience, and here at SERVPRO, we have 24-hour emergency response, every day of the year in Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas. Our technicians will work alongside utility companies and commercial plumbers to make sure your building is secure against any secondary water damages or loss. If you experience a loss that is considered a Category 3, i.e. sewage water, our professionals, who are IICRC-certified, will decontaminate your property working under specific standards. Our techs can work alongside certified environmental hygienists to give testing and clearances so you and your staff can have a peace of mind. Part of this process includes our technicians using special treatments to avoid mold growing in your building. In cases of long-term moisture where mold is already found, our certified mold remediation specialists will clean and get rid of as much mold growth as is possible.  Our team has the equipment and the staffing to take care of a commercial water loss of any size. We can help you recover from industrial plumbing failure and major floods to any other loss your commercial building might face If you’ve experienced a commercial water loss, speak with us at our franchise, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South by dialing 770-448-5782 for a prompt 24/7 response.

Reducing Risks for Small Business Owners | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Being prepared is a smart decision!

Understanding your risks as a business owner is an important part of keeping your investment protected. Being prepared for all sorts of risks is a wise move, but unfortunately, many business owners are not adequately prepared for natural disasters.

Natural disasters are becoming a more frequent occurrence throughout the country, and while certain areas might be more vulnerable than others, one can happen at any time in any part of the world. That is why it is important for business owners to know what they will do when a disaster becomes imminent as well as how to handle the lingering effects of one in order to restore your business and minimize the interruption in operations.

How to Prepare Your Business for Flooding | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

A flood can happened when you least expect it. If your business experiences any water damage, contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South. We will get yo

Preparing for a flood is one of the smartest things that a business owner can do, even if they are not in an area typically prone to flooding. Statistically, 90% of natural disasters involve flooding and commonly impact areas that are not usual flooding targets.

Increasing your emergency preparedness by planning for a flood is a great idea not only for the safety of yourself and your staff but also for the continuity of your business. By planning in advance and preserving documentation, you can be more prepared to reopen after the flooding passes.

<h3to-prepare">How to Prepare

It is not uncommon for business owners to not know where to start on flood preparations, but thankfully there are many resources out there. Some things to do include:

• Use the FEMA Flood Map and locate your building in order to determine any geographical risks you might face.
• Place copies of important documents in a secure location you will be able to access following a flood.
• Educate employees on your official flooding action procedures, which will ensure everyone knows what their role is in a flood scenario.
• Identify evacuation routes from various locations around the building and host regular drills.
• Consider the idea of adding flood insurance to your business policy.
• Store non-perishable food and water in case you face wait times for emergency personnel to arrive.
• Raise up any valuable electronics out of the water’s path.

<h3to-decide-what-documents-to-copy">How to Decide What Documents to Copy

When it comes to copying documents, it is better to have anything you think you might need instead of failing to remember something. Some important things to include are:

• An outline of your business continuity tasks
• Means of contact for any staff members and third-party services you may need to contact
• Your insurance agent’s contact information
• Detailed steps for recovering computer files that have been backed up
• Financial documents such as bank account information

If your business has experienced a flood, we are always here to help. Call us ²⁴⁄₇ to get our team of professionals to your business quickly so you can get back on track.

Urgent Cleanup --Water Leak Inside Bank

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

A large bank in Lawrenceville called SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to ask for our mitigation services and needed us to come as quickly as possible.  Because it was a holiday weekend, our access to the bank was done remotely by the maintenance company.  We had to agree to keep the bank door closed and locked at all times for security measures.

We found the cause of water infiltration was due to rain water collecting in a fiber line conduit outside the bank which lead to the server room inside the bank.  Water had affected the VCT and walls in the Server room and leaked to the supply room.  This had affected the rubber backed glued down carpet tiles and walls.  We extracted all the VCT and carpets and then treated the area and set equipment.  Because there was no drain, we had to use a trash can to catch the water from the dehumidifiers.  The manager did not want us to pull up any carpet or any cove base which caused for a longer drying cycle.

Mitigation included extraction, content manipulation and drying of the structure. We had to monitor over the holiday weekend, but were focused on getting the bank open and in good order by regular banking hours.  This job presented challenges because of tight security and unusual access.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will go beyond to get businesses back in working order and received a big thank you from the bank maintenance supervisor.

Sprinkler Malfunction causes Water Damage in Baseball Stadium

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Atlanta is fortunate to have a new "state of the art" Baseball stadium that is called Suntrust Park.  SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South was contacted by a local Fire Sprinkler Company in Loganville because their client, Suntrust Park, had a water damage issue caused by the malfunction of the sprinkler system in one of the offices.

When our technicians arrived they discovered that a pipe to the sprinkler system had burst in the stairway area which caused water to migrate through three different rooms.  The Sprinkler Company only wanted us to extract the water in two of the areas which had unfinished concrete, but one of the affected areas was finished and carpeted which required extraction and drying equipment.  Because the carpet tiles had rubber backing, they had to be removed to get the concrete back to goal.  Equipment was set in the finished room and monitored daily.

It was one of the jobs that our technicians talked about quite often.  We helped Suntrust Park, Home of the Atlanta Braves, have clean dry offices.  SERVPRO made a strong First Pitch!!

SERVPRO® of Gwinnett Co. South Helps Local Police Station

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Our local police precinct called because of a sewage back-up from the toilet in the women's bathroom.  This affected the hallway and went into the men's bathroom lobby as well.  The first floor was also affected in the office areas underneath the second floor bathrooms.  We had to place dehumidifiers, air scrubbers and disinfect the affected areas.  The ceiling tiles  had to be removed as well because it had become affected with the sewage back-up.

It was after we did the flood cuts that we noticed the existence of mold.  Pre-existing microbial growth from past water damage had caused extensive damage behind the bathroom tiles, under the hallway carpet, even under the metal sill plates and behind the wallpaper.  It was determined that all the drywall in the affected areas had to be removed as well because of the microbial growth.  After the affected areas were removed, dried and treated, a third party Industrial Hygienist came to do clearance testing.  The chief of police was pleased that we were there to help, and he could rest assured that now his Precinct would be a healthy place for his police force in the future.

This commercial job entailed more than was originally scoped because of the discovery of microbial growth; however, we received a glowing report from the chief.  He stated that he would not hesitate to recommend SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to other precincts that are affected by water damage.  

Church Restoration is a Top Priority With SERVPRO® of Gwinnett Co. South

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is located in an area with many churches, synagogues and other religious institutions, and we market to them so that they will know how we can help if a disaster such as water damage, fire, mold or flooding has affected their facility.  We recommend that they have an Emergency Ready Plan  so that they know before a disaster strikes where their water, gas and electrical systems are located, how to cut them off and who to contact.  It is often the pastor or a board member who knows, but often when an emergency happens they are unavailable.  It is essential for religious institution to have a plan on file so that prompt clean up can begin.

Many of the churches in Snellville and Grayson have preschools attached to them, and we have helped them with emergency services from toilet overflows because of children putting toys, etc. in the toilet.  These churches were relieved that we could begin mitigation so quickly and that the preschool would not be disrupted for a lengthy time.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is equipped with highly qualified technicians, all the mitigation equipment necessary and a professional construction department to make religious properties a top priority.

Commercial Large Loss

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Large Commercial Loss

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Water damage to your commercial building can be as simple as outside flood water entering the front lobby of your building or as complex as a fire sprinkler discharging on the tenth floor of an office building.  We have extensive experience on all different types and sizes of commercial water losses in the greater Atlanta area.

Developing a Plan

As soon as we arrive onsite our number one priority is learning your main priority.  After all, nobody knows your business better than you do!  Our technicians understand that you need to have your business up and running as soon as possible.  We also understand that as a business owner or manager you are having to deal with dozens of needs during a crisis: employees, inventory, technology, customers.  We need to understand your priority so that we can develop a plan that works for your business.

Large Loss Response Team

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is a qualified Large Loss Response Team (LLRT).  Being named an LLRT team member means that we have been vetted for having the resources and experience to handle large commercial losses.  So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we will be on our way with the help you need!

Steps to Preventing a Commercial Water Loss

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Having a water loss in your home is bad enough, however, water damage in your commercial building can be even worse in some cases. There are several reasons why commercial water damage can be more of a nightmare than residential water damage. For one, serious water damage can keep employees out of your office or important business from getting done. Here at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South, we recommend you do the following things to prevent ever having water damage in your commercial building.

Maintain the Grounds Around Your Building- If you don’t pay close attention, roots from trees in your yard can grow towards your pipes and cause them to break in some cases. The best way to prevent this is to not plant any trees close to any pipes going through your yard, but if you haven’t done that you should pay close attention to make sure you don’t have any roots threatening your pipes.

Look Out for Restroom Over-Usage- All-too-often bathrooms, especially toilets and urinals, can be very prone to flooding. Obviously, this is most common when the bathrooms are frequently used. If you have bathrooms that receive a significant amount of use, you should make sure it receives maintenance checks regularly to catch any problems before they cause you a serious issue.

Have Your Building Inspected by A Professional- It never hurts to call in a professional to inspect your building for any potential water damage risks you may have. A large amount of water damage issues is caused by a small problem becoming more serious and eventually causing a flood. A professional inspection will be able to catch these problems before they lead to any serious problems.

Educate Your Employees- With so many different people in and out of your building every day, there is greater chance of flooding due to human error. To help mitigate this possibility, you should educate your employees about what they should and shouldn’t do to prevent flooding and water damage from happening. Most of these suggestions will be common sense things to do, but making a point of it can help prevent foolish mistakes.

Even following all the steps above there is still the potential that a water loss happens to you. If it ever does, our team at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to help. Contact us at 770-448-5782 24/7.

SERVPRO Goes to Southern Loss

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast enjoys being with our agents, vendors and adjusters for the fall and spring Southern Loss Association Golf and Tennis Tournaments.   We usually sponsor two or three golf foursomes and a doubles tennis team. After eighteen holes and the tennis tournament finishes comes the best part for us. That is when we get to visit and mingle with our agent and adjuster friends and get to know them better in a more relaxed and informal way. Every season our group gets larger with more participants. We think that Southern Loss offers our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest a unique opportunity to network with a very large group of people who are involved in the restoration business. A lot of the Commercial contacts we have made for our franchise have been through the Southern Loss Association Golf and Tennis Tournaments. We will continue to be active in this organization.

SERVPRO Tips for a Commercial Water Loss

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

If you find yourself in a commercial disaster the first thing you should do is call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782 so that we can dispatch technicians out right away and we will make sure you get some help.

Tips until SERVPRO arrives:

• Shut off the water source if identified.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• DO NOT use regular vacuum to remove water
• Locate insurance information
• When we arrive we will do a very thorough dry out and complete it in a timely manner. We practice the science of drying...and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a "One Stop Shop" – Which means we are a company that can dry out your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782, we are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your commercial needs.

Call SERVPRO for your Commercial Needs

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage can be caused by things such as rain storms, broken pipes, humidity, faulty appliances or slow leaks. This can lead to mold or bacterial contamination if you do not have it cleaned up properly. A full-service property restoration company like our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South can help your business recover from water damage. We understand that the damage needs to be mitigated quickly to minimize the downtime your business is experiencing, and we have 24-hour emergency response, every single day of the year in Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas. Our team of technicians is IICRC-certified and will identify what is causing the water damage and will work alongside utility companies and commercial plumbers to make sure your building is secure against any secondary water damage or loss. We’ll also get rid of any debris and hazards and start extracting the water from your commercial property. Once we’ve removed all the standing water, our technicians will start the drying process of your structure using equipment and techniques which are state-of-the-art. If there is Category 3, i.e. sewage water, present in your building, our professionals, who deal with hazardous materials, will use antimicrobials to ensure your commercial building is decontaminated and to protect you and your staff against any health risks. Part of the water damage cleanup process includes our technicians using special treatments to avoid mold growing in your building. In cases of long-term moisture where mold is already found, our certified mold remediation specialists will clean and get rid of as much mold growth as is possible. We will also decontaminate your property to stop any more issues and we can work alongside certified environmental hygienists to give testing and clearances so you and your staff can have a peace of mind. Our team has the equipment and the staffing to take care of a commercial water loss of any size. We can help you recover from industrial plumbing failure and major floods to any other loss your commercial building might face If you’ve experienced a commercial water loss, speak with us at our franchise, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South by dialing 770-448-5782 for a prompt 24/7 response.

Common Causes of Commercial Water Losses

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms.   However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.  

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.  

3. Broken pipes and plumbing Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result.   

4. Backed up sewer lines This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings.   

If your business has suffered commercial water damage, our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at 770-448-5782 for fast help.

WHY MORE INSURANCE AGENTS CHOOSE SERVPRO

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO blends customer service with accountability! They understand your responsibility to provide results to your shareholders and clients. SERVPRO is uniquely qualified to help when disaster strikes, making you their "hero" in their times of need. 

We are here to make you look good.

There are many ways to ensure success as an insurance agent. Having a strong office staff, a company who pays claims in an ethical and timely manner, advertising, being involved in your community, and maintaining a positive relationship with your clients are just a few. SERVPRO knows how critical it is that every job goes as smooth as possible, ensuring your clients trust you time and time again when they need help. Our teams are trained to reduce the lost time and mitigate the damages as quickly as possible. Whether it’s fire, water, mold or any other cleanup; we are here to help, 24 hours a day. 

Our team members are available for direct cellular calls 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. You earn your client’s loyalty by providing timely solutions. You provide help in a time of need. Instead of offering a call center solution, our team members are available to take the call on their business line! We will personally call your client back, offer a listening ear, and take away some of the fear they are experiencing.

Having a relationship with SERVPRO and our team of highly trained professionals has many benefits. We will ensure help arrives quickly (following our 1-4-8 time commitment), and our production team will help your clients regain control of their lives by treating them with respect, courteousness and working hard to get the job done correctly the first time. There are no unwelcome surprises with SERVPRO. Calling direct reduces wait times. The faster SERPVRO's team can arrive onsite to perform the cleanup, the better the results. 

That’s the SERVPRO difference. Contact us at the SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are always here to help!

Emergency Ready Profile

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be “Ready for whatever happens” by letting one of our Marketing Representatives complete an Emergency Ready Profile on your business or office site. The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now. An Emergency Ready Profile will contain the following:

• Emergency Action Checklist

• Advanced Warning and Emergency Contacts

• Emergency Contacts

• Main Utility Information (Shut Off Locations)

• Primary Contact Information (Work Authorization Contact)

• Insurance Contact Information

• Miscellaneous Contact Information

• Property Overview

• Building Access Information

Not too long ago we completed an Emergency Ready Profile on a well-established funeral home, but no one in the office knew where the water cut-off was located. The next day when the owner of the funeral home was on site, he showed our representative the water cut-off. It was under a brick under some azalea bushes! Can you imagine the scope of water damage if the owner were absent and no one else knew the location of the water cut-off. Needless to say, he was delighted to have an Emergency Ready Profile. Now he can enjoy his vacations more knowing that his company has a written emergency plan and a digital one.

By implementing an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you can benefit from SERVPRO'S 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 so we can create your Emergency Ready Profile today!

Restoring Your Lawrenceville Commercial Property After a Water Damage Event

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Lawrenceville, GA commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.